Quantum's Fuel Injector Approved for Use in Europe

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 17, 2004 -- Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. announced today that its patented fuel injector for compressed natural gas has been certified for use in Europe by the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE R110). This certification-which defines the specifications and testing requirements for natural gas components-enables Quantum to commence commercialization of this patented technology for public use in Europe.

Quantum's injector is designed as a true OEM gaseous fuel injector. The patented design permits precisely controlled flow rates for small to large (300+ horsepower V8) engines, which translates into improved performance over competing technologies. The unique design provides for extremely quiet operation compared to currently available injectors. In addition, the Quantum injector is virtually free from frictional wear and sticking, which allows the injector to exceed the automotive industry's cycling requirements (based on SAEJ1832) and to offer sustained durability, which has been a challenge for existing natural gas injectors due to the low lubricity of gaseous fuels. In durability testing, Quantum's injector has demonstrated consistent, stable performance over more than 600 million cycles (equal to approximately twice the typical life of a vehicle).

Quantum's strategic partner, IMPCO Technologies, Inc., will market and distribute the natural gas version of the injector in Europe and other key markets. Quantum will directly market the injector for hydrogen applications, where it is being used as a metering tool for precisely delivering hydrogen to fuel cells and hydrogen internal combustion engines.

The European Union recently issued a directive to substitute 20% of all conventional automotive fuel with cleaner burning or indigenous fuels, including natural gas, by 2020. This directive has the potential to drive strong demand for Quantum's recently certified injector in the European market.

"We have several European customers who are ready to purchase our patented injector now that we have this critical certification. We have already started our marketing efforts in this area with our strategic partner, IMPCO," said Alan Niedzwiecki, President & CEO. "Additionally, we have seen an increased interest in this injector for hydrogen applications, including both internal combustion engines and fuel cells. This 'stamp of approval' from the European regulatory community is an important step for the commercialization of this competitive product-for all applications."

About Quantum:

Quantum focuses on three primary product and system applications: Transportation, Fuel Cell Stationary Power Generation, and Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure. The company manufactures both components and end products. In the Transportation sector, Quantum designs and supplies state-of-the-art fuel system technologies to many of the world's leading OEMs with Hydrogen systems for both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Fuel Cell applications, and Natural Gas and LPG fuel systems for internal combustion applications. In Stationary Power, Quantum currently supplies components and integrated systems to developers of fuel cell stationary power products and is working to expand its product portfolio in these applications. In the area of Refueling Infrastructure, Quantum offers several hydrogen and natural gas refueling systems focused on early infrastructure development, targeting fleets of one to 20 vehicles.

Quantum's ultra-light weight composite fuel storage, fuel injection and metering technologies, electronic control products, and OEM level systems integration capabilities have enabled the company to develop a product portfolio with state-of-the-art technologies and products, a diverse customer base, and alliances with partners such as General Motors, Sumitomo Corporation, and IMPCO Technologies.

Quantum is a Tier 1 OEM supplier and a member of the GM Fuel Cell Alliance of fuel cell commercialization companies. Quantum's customer base includes General Motors, Toyota, Opel, Hyundai, Suzuki, Ford, Sunline, Yamaha, and AeroVironment.

Quantum's web site: www.qtww.com.